New Minister Alan Kelly negotiating Brooks concerts

The newly appointed Environment Alan Kelly has intervened in the Garth Brooks concerts row.

The Sunday Independent reports the Minister, who is also the new deputy leader of the Labour Party, is trying to broker a solution involving a new option.

The Taoiseach and Peter Aiken from Aiken Promotions are also involved in talks aimed at agreeing a deal that would allow the gigs to go ahead.

Reports that up to 40% of the Croke Park residents had no knowledge of the planning objections made in their name may go in the country singer's favour.

Reporter Joyce Fegan said sources were remaining "really quiet on this one" and she learned about the negotiations in Nashville, Tennessee - and was told by Dublin sources a further update would be provided on Monday.

Brooks has already rejected the offer of three fully licensed concerts instead of five, and the offer of three evening and two matinee shows.

Ticket refunds are due to begin automatically on Tuesday, though Dublin's Lord Mayor, Christy Burke, has speculated there may be some "breathing space" on that deadline.

An investigation is also underway into complaints lodged against the five Croke Park gigs, as it has been reported up to 40% of residents had no knowledge of the planning objections made in their name.